Reps Set Date For Dialogue On Local Government Autonomy

The House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution will convene a national dialogue on local government autonomy on Monday, December 2, 2024.

Deputy Speaker of the House and Chairman of the Committee, Benjamin Kalu, announced this on Thursday during a meeting at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Representing Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, Kalu emphasized the dialogue’s importance in consolidating strategies for achieving a more independent local government framework in Nigeria.

“Distinguished colleagues, I would like to remind us of the upcoming national dialogue on local government and constitutional amendment scheduled for Monday, December 2, 2024, in Abuja,” Kalu said. “This platform is crucial for consolidating ideas for a robust local government framework, essential to our constitutional review efforts.”

Kalu also outlined additional public engagements planned by the committee, including discussions on tax reforms and consultations with political parties.

Looking ahead to January 2025, the Deputy Speaker revealed plans for zonal public hearings to gather input on constitutional amendments. The hearings will occur across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones: Gombe and Borno (North East), Nasarawa and Niger (North Central), Kaduna and Sokoto (North West), Enugu and Imo (South East), Bayelsa and Cross River (South South), and Lagos and Ondo (South West).

Kalu highlighted the importance of inclusivity in these engagements, urging stakeholders to involve all Nigerians, regardless of political, religious, or tribal affiliations.

“Draw up your own local plan, and let us integrate it into our work. Ensure that stakeholder engagement lists include all relevant voices,” he stressed.

The committee’s work will focus on 161 areas of constitutional review, aiming to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, deepen federalism, and foster national unity and prosperity.

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